‘Vets to Cowboys’ Empowers Veterans to Embrace the Cowboy Way of Life

Co-founders Jeremy and Heather Clark share how Vets to Cowboys helps U.S. veterans build new skills, find community in cattle ranching, and discover new opportunities in agriculture.

GRAND BAY, ALABAMA (RFD NEWS) — Agriculture is becoming a meaningful path for many military veterans transitioning back to civilian life, offering both career opportunities and a sense of purpose. A new program aims to strengthen that connection by pairing veterans with experienced cattle producers for mentorship and hands-on ranching experience.

Jeremy and Heather Clark, founders of Vets to Cowboys, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss their mission. Jeremy Clark, a retired U.S. Army Ranger, and Heather Clark launched the initiative alongside their cattle operation, C-4 Cattle Co.

In their conversation with RFD NEWS, the couple shared that their ranching journey began with a focus on raising cattle for their family and to meet their son’s dietary needs, while also recognizing the importance of encouraging younger generations to enter the ranching industry. That experience led to the realization that agriculture could provide a powerful outlet for veterans seeking a new direction after military service.

Through Vets to Cowboys, the Clarks connect veterans with seasoned cattlemen who provide mentorship and practical ranching opportunities. The program also emphasizes mental health support, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of working with livestock and spending time outdoors.

The Clarks say the program has received strong feedback from participants and supporters. They are now working on fundraising efforts to expand the initiative, including plans to purchase a mobile facility to bring training opportunities to veterans across the country.

LEARN MORE: www.bombassbeef.com/vetstocowboysinc

Related Stories
Kubota Tractor Company President and Army National Guard Veteran Alex Woods discusses the company’s Military Appreciation Month initiatives and long-term support programs for veterans in agriculture.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
Reed Marcum started hosting a toy drive in 2015. Since then, he has distributed thousands of toys across his home state of Oklahoma and in Texas and Arkansas. Now serving in the Army, Reed’s family and local 4-H chapter are running the event.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is helping connect veterans with resources to pursue careers in farming and agriculture.
Once a year, Army crew chiefs and Black Hawk mechanics undergo live aerial gunnery training—loading, firing, and practicing the teamwork they’ll need in real missions.
Kubota President Alex Woods discusses the “Geared to Give” program, the company’s commitment to those who served, and how the initiative continues to grow and impact veterans.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Roger McEowen of Washburn University School of Law joined us to discuss key legal and tax issues ranchers should consider as they recover from recent prairie fires across the Southern Plains.
Texas lawmakers secure funding for sterile fly production as officials work to stop the New World screwworm from spreading into the U.S. cattle herd.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding discusses the recent surge in bird flu cases, the state’s expanded biosecurity response and efforts to support poultry producers.
Geopolitical risk is rapidly increasing fertilizer price volatility before planting.
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.
Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.